MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY. 



5 



ment and more general use of the psychological apparatus secured 

 by the museum several years ago and until this spring used exclu- 

 sively in the Central High School. This apparatus is now placed, and 

 preparations made for interesting experimental work under the direc- 

 tion of Dr. George E. Dawson for the coming year. The possession 

 of a lantern opens up a number of possibilities and outlines for sev- 

 eral series of illustrated lectures are already prepared for the 

 autumn. 



Co-operation with Public Schools. 



Close relationship continues between the museum and the public 

 schools. Results of school gardening are displayed in the building. 

 The autumn exhibit of corn and potatoes raised by the children was 

 commendable and brought pupils with their parents to the building. 

 For the best products the museum awarded prizes and so encouraged 

 future efforts. 



Class work and lectures provide instruction that teachers use in 

 their daily v/ork, and special exhibits, planned to supplement school 

 work, are closely observed by teachers. 



Societies. 



Activity among affiliated societies has been gratifying. The newly 

 formed bird club now has a membership of about 100. This club is 

 named after Dr. J. A. Allen of New York, who was formerly of 

 Springfield and identified with this museum. Besides the indoor work 

 frequent field meetings have been enthusiastically attended. 



Field work of the geological society members results in specimens 

 from local geological formations being brought in for consideration 

 at following meetings. 



The renewed activity of the Springfield Amateur Horticultural 

 Society, since affiliation with the museum, is another cause for con- 

 gratulation, and is met with public approval. Membership is increas- 

 ing, helpful talks and discussion of horticultural subjects are regularly 

 furnished, and a good beginning has been made for a series of 

 flower shows. For this purpose the museum is finding ways to adapt 

 itself. 



Attendance. 



There is tangible evidence of the interest the museum has for the 

 public. There is quick response to notices of special attractions or 



